Following the release of Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad around 2 PM last Saturday, the Norwegian ambassador to the Philippines expressed his gratitude to President Duterte last Sunday.

Norwegian Ambassador Erik Forner took to Twitter and posted "Our gratitude to Pres. Duterte, Sec. Dureza and everyone who contributed to the release,"

It was confirmed by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza that the Abu Sayaff has finally release Sekkingstad last Saturday through the help of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and other groups. Sekkingstad was kidnapped last year September along with 2 Canadian nationals and a Filipina at Samal Island.

The 2 Canadian nationals were beheaded last April and May while Marites Flor was released last June. Although there were reports that Sekkingstad got released after a ransom money was paid,the AFP maintained that the release was because of their intensive operations against the notorious bandit group.

Meanwhile, the Malacañang stands with its "no-ransom" policy with kidnappers.